Lobbying

Hey Everyone!


On Tuesday, September 21st I marched the many steps to the state capitol to lobby for suicide prevention. After the long march I met with my fellow survivor friends who were also there to lobby for suicide prevention. Many people were there from various organizations, though all of us were there for the same reason, suicide prevention. There were people there to support veterans, to support older adults, and one that really caught my eye; avedium- I've got your back.
Avedium started by a high school girl that sadly lost her father. She wrote a paper about this as well as the loss of a high school student in an English paper stating that something had to be done. Her message was heard loud and clear. Her English teacher and her collaborated and came up with the idea to speak openly about suicide prevention. She is now in college and has spread the word to many other high schools and colleges. What she is doing is truly remarkable and inspiring. I cherish her story and it inspires me to raise awareness.
Many people spoke very movingly about suicide prevention. I met many new people, and heard many great inspiring stories. That day I felt very political, though the day was not about whether you are a donkey, elephant, or liking the color green. The day was about an issue that has no political lines, it was about life.